Stockwell Removals Health and Safety Policy

Stockwell Removals is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, customers, and members of the public who may be affected by our activities. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with removals, packing, loading, transport, and delivery of goods.

Policy Statement and Objectives

The management of Stockwell Removals recognises its legal and moral responsibility to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of employees and others. Our objectives are to prevent injury and ill health, protect property, and minimise the impact of our activities on the surrounding environment and community.

We will achieve this by identifying and controlling hazards, providing suitable training and supervision, maintaining safe vehicles and equipment, and promoting a positive health and safety culture throughout the company.

Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with the company management, who will ensure that appropriate systems, resources, and competent advice are in place. Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for the day-to-day implementation of this policy, including the communication of safe working methods and monitoring compliance on site and during journeys.

All employees have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Employees must follow safety instructions, use equipment correctly, wear any required personal protective equipment, report hazards or incidents promptly, and cooperate with any investigations or improvements.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices

Stockwell Removals will carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessments for our removal and transport activities. These assessments will cover tasks such as manual handling, packing, loading and unloading, working in customers premises, vehicle movements, use of equipment, and any work at height involved in moving goods from or to upper floors.

The findings of risk assessments will be used to develop safe systems of work and job-specific instructions. These will be communicated to staff through training, toolbox talks, job briefings, and written procedures. Risk assessments will be reviewed regularly and after any significant change in working practices, equipment, or legislation, or following an accident, incident, or near miss.

Manual Handling and Use of Equipment

Manual handling is a core part of our operations, and we recognise the potential for strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries. We will avoid hazardous manual handling where reasonably practicable by planning jobs carefully and using mechanical aids such as sack trucks, trolleys, skates, ramps, and lifting equipment when appropriate.

Where manual lifting and carrying cannot be avoided, loads will be assessed for weight, size, and stability. Staff will receive training in correct lifting techniques, team lifting, and the use of aids. Employees must not attempt to lift or move items that are beyond their capability or to use equipment for which they are not trained or authorised.

All tools and equipment will be maintained in a safe condition, inspected regularly, and removed from service if defects are identified. Only competent personnel may operate lifting or mechanical equipment.

Vehicles, Driving, and Road Safety

Stockwell Removals will ensure that all vehicles used for removals and transport are suitable for their purpose, maintained in a roadworthy condition, and subject to regular servicing and safety checks. Pre-use checks will be carried out by drivers, and any defects will be reported immediately.

Drivers must hold the appropriate licence and be medically fit to drive. They are expected to comply with road traffic laws, follow route instructions, and drive defensively. Speed limits and rest requirements must always be observed. Vehicles will be loaded and unloaded safely, with loads secured to prevent movement during transit and to protect both the goods and other road users.

Working in Customers Premises

Our teams often work in customers homes, offices, and shared areas. We will take reasonable steps to protect customers, visitors, and other occupants from risks arising from our activities. This includes controlling trip hazards from equipment and packaging, managing access routes, and securing doors, gates, or lifts when required.

Staff will treat customers premises with respect, avoid blocking emergency exits, and maintain clear communication about work progress and any safety-related instructions. Particular care will be taken where vulnerable individuals, children, or pets are present.

Training, Information, and Supervision

Stockwell Removals will provide employees with the information, instruction, and training they need to work safely and competently. This includes induction training, role-specific safety training, manual handling instruction, and ongoing refresher sessions as needed.

Supervisors are responsible for monitoring safe behaviour, offering guidance, and correcting unsafe practices. Additional support will be provided to new or inexperienced staff until they are deemed competent to work with reduced supervision.

Accident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, incidents, near misses, injuries, or cases of work-related ill health must be reported to management as soon as possible. Records will be maintained and reviewed to identify patterns and opportunities for preventive action. Where required, incidents will be reported to the relevant authorities.

Procedures are in place for dealing with emergencies such as fire, serious injury, vehicle collisions, or dangerous occurrences. Employees will be briefed on how to raise the alarm, evacuate safely if needed, summon assistance, and provide basic first aid where trained and appropriate.

Consultation and Continuous Improvement

Stockwell Removals is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety performance. We encourage employees to raise concerns, suggest improvements, and participate in discussions about health and safety matters. Feedback from staff and customers, along with lessons learned from incidents, will be used to refine our procedures and working methods.

This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, industry best practice, and the nature of our operations. The latest version will be made available to employees and to customers who wish to understand how we manage health and safety within our removal services.